Preventing suicide, together.
World Suicide Prevention Day 2025
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Tuesday September 9th, 2025 (One Day Before WSPD) - Joshua Dickerson
World Suicide Prevention Day 2025
World Suicide Prevention Day 2025
Tomorrow, September 10th, it's World Suicide Prevention Day. An awareness date that is very close to far too many people.
Many friends and colleagues have lost loved ones to suicide, and whilst this loss drives our passion and motivates us to share these stories, we know we are not alone.
It is estimated that every 40 seconds, someone in the world dies by suicide, and the impact ripples out to families, friends, colleagues, and communities.
We know that holding space for others can feel overwhelming, and at times you might worry about saying or doing the wrong thing.
Over the past few years, I’ve shared my own journey with dealing with the grief that comes following suicide and my own thoughts on how we can help prevent other families go through similar situations in the future.
You can find these articles linked below.
Start the conversation
Start the conversation
One of the core messages throughout all my articles linked above is that of “saying something” and not being afraid to start the conversation.
The triennial theme for World Suicide Prevention Day for 2024-2026 is "Changing the Narrative on Suicide" with the call to action "Start the Conversation".
This theme aims to raise awareness about the importance of reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations to prevent suicides. Changing the narrative on suicide is about transforming how we perceive this complex issue and shifting from a culture of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding, and support.
Every conversation, no matter how small, contributes to a supportive and understanding society. By initiating these vital conversations, we can break down barriers, raise awareness, and create better cultures of support.
Why Language Matters.
Why Language Matters.
Talking about suicide and suicidal thoughts can be hugely challenging. Using language that is empathetic and respectful around mental health and suicide encourages an environment free of stigma. The language changes below can help to create a safe, compassionate space to discuss suicide if needed.
When having conversations about suicide, make sure there is enough time for the conversation and that, where possible, it takes place in a safe space free from interruptions.
Always be led by the people affected. Listen to the language they use and feel comfortable with and reflect this in your choice of words, staying open and non-judgemental.
When thinking about specific words and phrases, you might find it helpful to consider the following alternatives.
Instead of saying ‘committed’ suicide, say ‘took their own life’ or ‘died by suicide.’ This removes the implication of criminality.
Instead of talking about a ‘successful,’ ‘failed’ or ‘completed’ suicide attempt, say ‘died by suicide’ or ‘tried to end their life.’ This avoids the language of achievement or glamorising a suicide attempt.
Instead of referring to someone as being “depressed”, say that they are “experiencing depression”. Depression symptoms are temporary; therefore, the person may experience depression as opposed to being defined by it.
Below we’ve included a few simple resources that act as small positive language changes that we would encourage you to read through and understand so you can support others in talking about suicide in a positive manner if needed.
What can we do?
What can we do?
So, as with previous years, it may have been easier for me not to say anything at all today, and it may be difficult for you to read some of this.
But as we continue to have this conversation, I hope that it makes it that little bit easier for someone to talk about suicide that needs to.
Now it’s your turn. Is there someone in your life that you need to double-check with?
Want to chat?
Want to chat?
If you want to read more about my story, find out what I’ll be up to, or donate to HEY Mind, then please go to the donation page here.
Happy birthday for tomorrow, mum.🌷. 💙
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